Shopping, Names, and Planning

Baby Alex,

We're approaching 19 weeks! We're almost halfway there! Things have been definitely feeling better on my part and I am so in love with you and definitely love feeling you move every now and then. I've finally gained some weight (another 4-5 lbs), and am trying to be sure I don't gain too much too quickly! I've been so hungry, which is the complete opposite of how I felt in the beginning.

Your dad and I have been planning and shopping already! We have a local used book store which recently opened up at our mall, and they have a pretty decent children's section. Your dad and I have been discussing some of our favorite books as kids, so we were pretty happy when we found some of those in the store! So, we bought them and have some books ready for you. He's also going to start reading to my belly soon!

We also went to a flea market last Saturday just because and found ourselves looking at more things for you than for ourselves! See, we're already in parent-mode :). Upon browsing, we can across a nicely built dresser (the owner bought it in the 70's and recently updated/painted it), and it also came with what looks like a changing table. There's a slot for a mirror too, but he didn't know where that could be. No big deal! For $35 it was ours! Well, now technically yours ;). We'll look into repainting it to a boy-ish color, but we'll see. It was a great deal!

Here's your dresser just sitting in our room. Looking forward to moving in a few weeks and starting on your actual nursery!!

 We've also been buying you some toys to place in your nursery. Your dad also suggested an idea for your nursery theme, and I loved it! So we're set on your theme too!

 As you can see, we've decided on your name- Alexander Samuel. Samuel is the name of your grandpa on your dad's side who passed away a few years ago. Your dad's middle name is also the name of his grandpa too! So we've been calling you Alex! So much love!

My Little Boy!

Your dad and I had an ultrasound yesterday! To our surprise, we discovered it wasn't actually an ultrasound day- it was just a heartbeat checkup with some blood work. Since Gary took the day off, he asked the doctor about an ultrasound- and the doctor was happy to go ahead and do it.

Now, I actually have another one at 20 weeks at the ultrasound center in Panorama City (where you're supposed to be born), but my doctor said he was 90% sure you're a boy! The last technician said a similar thing, so right now we're feeling pretty good about you being a little boy. 

The doctor said everything is going really well! All tests are good, you're an excellent size, my placenta is good and strong, and you're definitely healthy. Such good news!

I'm doing pretty well too. No throwing up this week so far! It's totally random. However, I did manage to get a cold virus which has been going around, forcing me to leave early today. The classroom (more specifically the child) I have been primarily working with has been sick with a head cold. He doesn't use tissues, sneezes in faces, and wipes his snot everywhere (he is not mentally challenged, just has some behavioral problems due to issues at home). As much as I tried to drown myself in sanitizer, throw tissues his way, sit away from him, and wash my hands consistently, I still managed to bring it home and get your dad sick. Close to a week later, it struck me too. I really wish parents would learn to keep their sick children home. I even called his mom and sent home notes, but I guess there was no stopping it. Half the children in the room were sick. Oh, well!

Besides that, everything is going so smoothly and I'm thrilled you're big and healthy! We've been calling you a specific name, so it may stick or we may change our minds down the road. We'll see!

Love you, little monkey!

Week 16

We're 16 weeks now! Your growth spurt is definitely on the way, if not already happening. My pregnant belly is starting to show even more now, to the point where people can see I'm actually pregnant and not just gaining belly fat. Relief! Your weight is going to double real soon! My weight still hasn't changed, but I know it will soon!

I was pretty sure I felt you for the first time while relaxed on the couch. I felt a bubble/popcorn sensation in my lower abdomen. It was sudden, but so cool. I just smiled and told your dad I was pretty sure I just felt you moving in there.

I threw up three times during the week- two times after breakfast during the weekday and once after dinner. Once again, the chronic nausea is gone, so it may have been something you just didn't want me eating. I had fruit one morning with my oatmeal and again the next. Darn fruit! I did eat an apple yesterday though and felt fine, but that was during lunch. The dinner was chicken noodle soup, which confused me, but okay! Sure! I was eating Fiber One bars regularly to help with digestion, which works great, until I realized a primary ingredient in there isn't safe for pregnancy! It's called chicory root extract. I'm sure it would have to be taken in great amounts for it to do any real harm, but I started cutting back to a few times per week instead of twice each day. See, I worry too much sometimes. 

I'm also getting body aches and could really use a nice massage! My back hurts and my shoulders and neck seem to be stressed the most- which leads to some pretty wicked headaches. Your dad has been helping out a bit, but I found a couple of deals for prenatal massages, so I might just have to get that done. I heard frequent massages can contribute to a shorter and easier labor. Count me in! ;) Anyway, the maternity pillow is now used every night. I'm feeling the stretching pains in my lower abs, so being curled up on my side seems to help out a lot, especially with the pillow.

You are a blessing, despite the aches and pains of pregnancy! It's all worth it, it really is. You're such a miracle and your dad and I love you so very much!

On Monday, we'll see you! We've got some names picked out whether you're a boy or a girl, so we'll see what the verdict is. No matter what, we'll be thrilled! 

14 Weeks

Little Monkey,

I am 14 weeks along with you now (might actually be slightly further based on my last ultrasound, but we'll stick to this for now). Let's just say I am happy to finally be in the 2nd trimester! My energy levels have gone up again and the nausea is gone for the most part. My back has been slightly aching along with some ligament pain, and I'm getting headaches, but for the most part, all is well! I'd rather deal with headaches than nausea and fatigue.

As for my weight, nothing has changed much. I've gained about 5 lbs. total from the start. I've been doing a lot of walking, but now that I'm finally in the 2nd trimester and feeling tons better, I'm ready to start working out a little harder (but not too hard) to stay in shape. I'm considering canceling my gym membership and signing up for prenatal exercise classes instead. But we'll see! I have prenatal videos at home, so I might just save the money and do it here instead.

My appetite has also come back for the most part. I still can't do sweets very well and I'm trying to warm up to fruits once again, but I can eat and drink without the urge to throw up. I still throw up sometimes, but it's much, much better!

We also bought me a maternity pillow- which is very comfy! I don't use it every night though, just because it's so big and I'm still early enough to roll around in different positions. But I'll be using it soon since you'll be growing pretty quickly this trimester! I'm excited to feel you grow; and some weeks for now, move around in there enough for me to feel you! Your cute daddy is also finding books he can read to you once your hearing kicks in. Every time we go anywhere to shop, he wants to stop by the baby section or a nearby baby store just to browse around and get ideas about your future. He was even looking at amazing playhouses to install or build once we have a yard. He's too fun how involved he is! He always asks about you and is very good about taking care of me when my back or head hurts. I'm so blessed!

Anyway, that's the update for now! I can't wait to see you again on the 9th. Your daddy will get to be there this time to confirm your gender. 

Almost 13 Week Ultrasound

Baby Gilg,

Today was another ultrasound! It was perfect! In the beginning, your dad and I weren't sure we were going to do the chromosomal testing, but after some urging from our doctor, I went ahead with it anyway (this is because I'd love you no matter what!).

Everything came back perfect! My risk of abnormalities is extremely low. The first test was blood drawn, but today was a 30 minute ultrasound with lots of pictures and recordings to make sure everything is functioning properly. The tech was laughing because you were moving around so much, it took a little more time to get a picture of your cute hands and arms. She also kept bumping you (slightly uncomfortable on my part) to get you to move your head so she could get the back of your neck. Oh, you are precious!

In the end, everything was wonderful and the doctor and tech were talking about how cute you are.

The only slight concern was revolved around me- my pulse was 44. It should be getting up there in the 80's by now. But looking at a history of my heart rate, the doctor said it's probably nothing and just means I'm in good shape. However, doc wants me to get an EKG just to rule out any underlying heart conditions. Bradycardia can has negative effects during pregnancy, so they just want to make sure everything is good. Upping my thyroid medication can also help since bradycardia can be linked to hypothyroidism.

Anyway, here you are! I couldn't help but giggle a few times when you were bouncing around in there.

 So CUTE!!

And here's me with your cute self (I was actually trying to suck in so you could see bump and not extra stuff ;) )

I was also told every woman is different in how much she shows during her pregnancy. So I'm good!

  Anyway, all is well. The morning sickness has finally backed off. Finally! Every now and then I'll throw something up, but the constant nausea is gone for the most part. Now it's sudden nausea, throwing up, then nothing. Before, I was chronically nauseated no matter if I threw up or not. I also feel a little energy coming back. If I take the Zofran before bed, I sleep marvelously and feel pretty good the next day. Even on some evenings when I skip the medicine, I've been feeling pretty good the next day. 

 I also started buying maternity pants. Look, nobody wants to see me squeeze into my regular jeans. Muffin top is not flattering (not this kind), plus, being pregnant and squeezing on jeans is way uncomfortable (and yes, I'm referring to gas). I only had three pairs of jeans that fit until one of the zippers broke on one of them, leaving me with two pairs of jeans total. Not wanting to buy bigger jeans and only stick to dresses and skirts, I went to Ross and found a pair for $13. I was actually there to buy my new purse, but stumbled across them. Heaven! So comfortable! Then I noticed Sears is having a buy one get one free sale in their maternity section. Hello two new pairs! These will be great to grow into and keep for next time.

Well, I think that's all for now!

And by the way, the technician and doctor are pretty sure they know what you are based on what the three of us saw. But I won't say until we confirm it on the 9th. ;)

11 Weeks

We’re now at 11 weeks!  You’re about the size of a fig and almost fully formed! Tooth buds are beginning to appear and some of your bones are beginning to harden. I also learned you’re pretty active in there- kicking and stretching and all sorts of acrobatics. Though of course I can’t feel you just yet; nor can I feel your cute hiccups.

What’s also cool is you’re already developing a sleep and wake cycle! They usually last 5-10 minutes long, and just my coughing can wake you. Your vocal cords are also beginning to form- and you’re a fully developed boy or girl! We still have a little over a month before we get to see that part though.

I’m developing a bit of a pooch already, though I've been feeling pretty bloated for the past few weeks or more. It’s not a baby bump just yet. It’s mostly digestion, and the fact my uterus has more than doubled already to prepare for you.

As for weight, I've gained about 3 pounds from the start. I know gaining weight is healthy, but a part of me does not like seeing the scale go up- especially since I worked so hard to see it go down! I’m not exercising nearly as much as I should anymore, which is sad. I need to get back to it! I’m over the running thing. I read many articles about how running can loosen the abdominal walls, which can cause leakage even after pregnancy. So I’ll stick to walks, my stationary bike, light weights, and prenatal yoga. The key is to get started though!

Morning sickness started to finally lighten up a couple of days ago. I’m not exactly sure if it’s just the right time, or if it’s due to the medication I finally asked my doctor to prescribe. See, between weeks 8-10, it was rough. Really rough. I couldn't keep anything down; I had a hard time concentrating at work because I felt so ill, and I was getting headaches, feeling lightheaded, etc.

Finally I caved and e-mailed my doctor, and an hour later I had a prescription waiting for me. The prescription used to be primarily for chemo patients (it’s called Zofran), and used to cost $65 per pill. Now it’s used for other forms of nausea and insurance covers it. I took one that evening- and the next day I felt marvelous. I kept up this pattern for the next couple of days, and although I threw up my dinner tonight, I've been feeling nausea-free for 90%of the day- it’s wonderful!

Anyway, I get to see you again on November 12^th- I should be around 13 weeks at that time, so you’ll be much bigger! Yay!

Week 9

Baby Peanut,

I am currently in week 9! It still seems so early-I had never planned at all to announce as early as I did. I wanted to at 12-14 weeks, but after hearing that precious beating heart, I got too excited!

I gotta say, week 8 was horrendous. You're perfect, of course. Being as sick as I am means you're healthy! But goodness. I had to take a day off of work because I felt so sick. I've been trying hard to control throwing up because I HATE throwing up, but I realized it only drags it out longer. So, I just made sure to stay near a bathroom and allow myself to throw up. Not too much, of course- I don't want to smell (though I have mouthwash), and I don't want to make my teeth unhealthy. But now I'm letting nature take its course. Does this mean you might be a girl after all?

Here's what else is going on in the pregnancy world- daily headaches. This is accompanied by being lightheaded and dizzy. I have to make sure I'm moving around frequently and not sitting too long- and being sure I take walks every evening (which help tremendously). I realized when I'm inactive, I feel worse. Driving in my car so long (commuting to work, moving around different schools, etc.) doesn't help at all. I've had to walk out of certain rooms because of smells too. Let's see- the bloody nose thing started last week as well. I was play wrestling with your dad (no, he didn't hit me), and I bumped my own nose- but barely. I then noticed blood on my hand. Oh, a new adventure.

But, of course there are the good things! I've been sleeping really well each night. Like, amazingly well. It's been great! Your dad has been giving me an extra hour every morning and it's fantastic. Going from 5am to 6am really does make a difference. Plus, every time I think about that ultrasound, I smile. I have your "picture" on my fridge and I can't help but feel such joy when I see it. Your dad and I still like to go over names every now and then for the fun of it. What have we come up with? For a boy, we're looking at Alexander and Joshua- and I think a few others your dad likes. He picked those two out, but he's not hooked yet. For a girl, I'm pretty stuck on Anna, but we'll see if anything changes in the future ;). You are such a blessing!!

I don't have a bump yet this early, but considering my uterus has doubled in size already, my pants aren't as comfortable as they used to be. I've actually had to pull out my size 8's and 10's (though they're kind of baggy), just to be comfortable. My 6's aren't as comfortable anymore- and anything too tight around me makes the nausea much worse. So, sadly those 6's are put away. Before I knew I was pregnant, I went shopping for fall clothes- I got some really cute fall skirts and outfits (all size 6), but unfortunately will not be able to wear them when the weather cools off. But I have a plan! You are due to arrive in May- my goal is to fit those cute size 6 clothes when fall comes around. I will work hard to get back into those! But for now, let the fat phase begin. My weight hasn't changed (I actually lost a bit), but I'm definitely feeling the bloat. I'm not running though- my doctor said no running or cycling (okay, so I've sneaked in some small runs), and I'm not lifting as much as I used to. So some of the weight loss may actually be muscle loss. I need to get on the ball! I am going for my walks (3 miles or so), but I need to up my game. The food thing is hard for now- so I'm just going to eat what I can and watch my caloric intake. Once the 2nd trimester comes along, it's time to up my game and stay in shape!

I took this one about a week ago- even then I was feeling a little bloated, but then again, the last time I wore that outfit I was a bit lighter than I am now. No, this isn't a bump picture! People Magazine contacted me and wanted a photo THAT day to see where I was. I submitted this and told them about the pregnancy. 

Next on the agenda: find a dressy gown for your dad's upcoming Christmas party this December. It's going to be at this super fancy, oceanfront hotel in Santa Monica. It's gorgeous. Everything will be paid for and there's going to be some really awesome raffle giveaways. I'm definitely looking forward to it. I just need to find a nice dress/gown that will work with a bump- and not cost $200.

Anyway, looking forward to my next ultrasound- November 4th!